Minimalism and the combination of the evolving global concepts of design and ancient Indian aesthetics become the ruling principles that govern the planning and designing of The Gujarat Knowledge Centre.
The 7.5 acres campus of The Gujarat Knowledge Centre which was commissioned by the joint venture of the Gujarat Knowledge Consortium and the Gujarat Education Society in 2009 was finally realised in 2013. This low-rise campus is pampered with the pre-existing trees and stretches of manicured lawns. An almost old world romance towards simplicity is at play here.
The walls with exposed brick and concrete swathes, and the conversation enabling open spaces in between are specific design interventions on the part of the HCP Design, Planning and Management Pvt. Ltd. A sense of nostalgia pervades with the courtyards that will host interactions and recreational activities. The courtyard structure is a feature of Indian architecture.
This micro-environment building motivates two distinct projects of the state itself – ‘Skill Development’ and ‘Faculty Upgradation’. The administrative block includes an exhibition hall, a pantry, a conference room, the cabins of the CEO and the Director, a reception area and an entrance lobby. The cafeteria stands beside an impressive auditorium complex which houses one august and one smaller hall, the former with a capacity of 280.
The Gujarat Knowledge Centre has been designed with a mature hand by HCP Design, Planning and Management Pvt. Ltd., by resisting all temptations of bringing in a clutter of props, instead relying on minimalism to be a stand-out.
